Aldon Smith's decision to seek alcohol treatment could work in his favor when the NFL decides whether to suspend him for his off-the-field issues.

Speaking to reporters after a forum for European fans, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said that Smith's treatment will be considered when weighing any discipline.

"Yes, it will be a factor, for sure," Goodell said.

San Francisco's game against Jacksonville at Wembley Stadium will be the fifth straight game Smith, a dynamic pass rusher, will miss. He entered a treatment center Sept. 23, three days after his second arrest for drunken driving since he entered the NFL in 2011.

The 49ers are planning to meet with Smith soon and are is hopeful he will return to the team this season. Coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke said the reports of Smith's progress are encouraging and they want to see him make continued progress before coming back to the team.